Defensive Line

Returning: Maxx Crosby, Clelin Ferrell, Arden Key, Maurice Hurst, Jonathan Hankins

Additions: Carl Nassib, Maliek Collins

Maxx Crosby provided a much-needed jolt to the defensive line throughout his rookie campaign, recording 10 sacks and 47 tackles. However, outside of Crosby, the Raiders lacked legitimate starters who can apply consistent pressure to opposing quarterbacks.

With the additions of Carl Nassib and Maliek Collins, they’ve acquired two new starters along the defensive front. Nassib has never been a full-time starter for an entire season but he’s coming off back-to-back seasons with six sacks or more while only seeing the field in a part-time role.

The Raiders’ defensive tackle position has been centered heavily around stopping the run. Obviously that’s a huge factor in anchoring the middle of the defensive line but they haven’t had much of anyone who could push the pocket from the interior position in quite some time. Collins is someone who can do exactly that and he’ll be reuniting with defensive coordinator Rob Marinelli who he played for in Dallas over the last four seasons.